Hatcheries to face random inspections

Georgetown: Following reports by consumers of poor quality chicks, commercial hatcheries in Guyana will be subjected to random inspections by the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA.)

The random series of inspections being undertaken by the Livestock department is designed to check on bio-security measures, give technical advice to hatchery owners, operators and to witness compliance with applicable regulations, regarding vaccinations and laws related to animal health.

Newly emerged chicks of the broiler or the layer type suffer from a number of diseases, many of which cause death or poor weight gain in the production cycle.

Over the years, the poultry industry has developed a number of ways of controlling these diseases. One such strategy is vaccination. In Guyana’s case, owners and operators of hatcheries are by law compelled to vaccinate against diseases such as Inclusion Body Hepatitis/Hydropericardium Syndrome (HH), Infectious Bursal Disease and Mareks.

GLDA, a semi-autonomous body, has responsibility for all livestock matters under its parent legislation.